tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:blogdestructoidhttp://bulk2.destructoid.com/ele2/images/destructoid/favicon.ico2014-12-31T15:00:00Ztag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=285573Mr Andy Dixonhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Mr+Andy+DixonWhat game will you ring in the New Year with?2014-12-31T15:00:00Z2014-12-31T15:00:00Z<p>New Year's Eve was always my favorite holiday growing up. Not only were there yummy snacks galore at whatever party my parents dragged me to each year, but the adults were normally so preoccupied with drinking and pretending to enjoy each other's company that they didn't care what us kids were up to... which meant we could stay up playing videogames ALL. NIGHT. LONG. <em>Battletoads</em>, <em>Bubble Bobble</em>, <em>Ikari Warriors</em>; a lot of the games my brothers and I ended up mastering as kids were owed to late night gaming sessions on December 31st.</p>
<p>As I grew into adulthood, I tried the whole party thing, but watching New York City enter puberty every goddamn year while you stand awkwardly in a crowded kitchen just trying to get to the goddamn cocktail wieners kinda loses its appeal after a while. So instead, this year I will <a target="_blank" href="http://www.avclub.com/article/netflix-help-parents-send-their-kids-bed-early-new-213362">trick my kids</a> into thinking midnight is about 9 o'clock, pour myself a whiskey, and boot up <em><a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/review-plants-vs-zombies-garden-warfare-270427.phtml">Plants vs Zombies: Garden Warfare</a></em> (my most recent obsession). And I couldn't be more excited.</p>
<p>What about you? Skipping the whole party scene this year in favor of playing a good game? Tell us which one! Who knows, maybe you multiplayer-minded folks might even find a good buddy to play with here in the comments.</p>
<p>No matter what you end up doing, we at Destructoid hope you have a safe and happy New Year!</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/285573-newyear.jpg" alt="What game will you ring in the New Year with? screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=285468Jonathan Holmeshttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Jonathan+HolmesLost Constellation is a pay-what-you-want Night In The Woods ghost story2014-12-28T10:00:00Z2014-12-28T10:00:00Z<p>The success of <a href="https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1307515311/night-in-the-woods" target="_blank"><em>Night In The Woods</em> on Kickstarter</a> once again proved that the best way to win at crowd funding is to create something that people actively want to lob on to their own image/identity. So many games on Kikcstarter look fun, well made, and interesting, but they lack that charm that drives others to wave the game's flag and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ijvTiDnWJLE" target="_blank">join up</a> with its developers.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Would Obama have become President if those "Hope" images didn't make cool t-shirts and desktop wallpapers? Would so many people have proudly backed KONY 2012 if the campaign had targeted an evildoer with a harder to pronounce name? Probably not. Marketing is everything, and though it may sound obvious, the most important part of marketing is being marketable.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Thankfully, a lot of marketable games are also genuinely great. If reaction to&nbsp;<em>Lost Constellation </em>is any indication, <em>Night In The Woods</em> will fit that bill. This Holiday-themed romp is <a target="_blank" href="http://finji.itch.io/lost-constellation">available now for the suggested price of $5</a>, but how much you pay is up to you. I haven't gotten a chance to play it myself, but if it's anywhere <a target="_blank" href="http://www.bombsfall.com/?portfolio=but-im-a-nice-guy">as good as this</a>, we'll all have cause to laugh and be disillusioned <em>at the same time</em>. What a feeling!</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/285468-Lost Constelation.jpg" alt="Lost Constellation is a pay-what-you-want Night In The Woods ghost story screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=284909Darren Nakamurahttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Darren+NakamuraRecycle your unwanted Steam junk to bid on games (Update)2014-12-11T22:00:00Z2014-12-11T22:00:00Z<p>[<strong>Update</strong>: The auction has been temporarily shut down, most likely due to the incredible amount of Gem Sacks that were being sold on the marketplace, driving the cost down and inflating the auctions. There are suspicions that users found a way to duplicate Gem Sacks. Currently, the official word is "<span>Sorry, but there have been some issues with Gems and the Steam Holiday Auction has been temporarily closed. The elves are working frantically to get the issues sorted out, and the auction will start again as soon as they're done."]</span></p>
<p>It's that time of year again, when Valve comes up with some new and interesting way to separate players from their money while convincing them that it is a good deal. This time around <a target="_blank" href="http://steamcommunity.com/auction/">Valve is putting on an auction</a>. Up to 200,000 games will be sold off to the highest bidder of each round.</p>
<p>The catch? The currency at play here is gems, which can be obtained by cashing in Steam trading cards, profile backgrounds, and emoticons. All of that junk sitting in Steam inventories that never gets used can be put toward a free game. Of course, everybody else will be doing the same, so you might have to grind for additional gems by doing the whole <a href="http://www.destructoid.com/how-i-became-obsessed-with-steam-trading-cards-258140.phtml">trading card thing</a>. Play games that drop cards, craft badges to get backgrounds and emoticons, and then convert them all to gems. That's how they get you.</p>
<p>Bidding on the first round of auctions has already begun, but the auction officially kicks off on December 15 at 7:00 AM Pacific, with each bidding round lasting 45 minutes. The auction ends on December 18 at 10:00 AM Pacific. In true Valve form, the back story for this seedy holiday black market has been <a target="_blank" href="http://steamcommunity.com/auction/comic">presented in comic form</a>.</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/284909-Auction.jpg" alt="Recycle your unwanted Steam junk to bid on games (Update) screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=284524Jordan Devorehttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Jordan+DevoreWolfenstein's Deathshead looks like a creepy uncle in this Christmas card2014-12-03T15:00:00Z2014-12-03T15:00:00Z<p>I'm a total sucker for the holiday season. Christmas cards, particularly those featuring creepy-ass uncanny-valley videogame men wearing festive sweaters, are no exception.</p>
<p>In the hope that I'm not alone, I had to <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/machinegames/status/540216210018037760">share this</a> <em>Wolfenstein: The New Order</em> card from Machine Games. Some of you will wonder "Why post this?" And to that I say, <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/oh-hell-yeah-ashen-rift-has-dog-testicle-balls-physics-284497.phtml">you saw <em>this</em>, right</a>?</p>
<p>I'm tempted to Photoshop the words out, print some copies, slip them in with my real Christmas cards, and then act like everything is normal. Seems even better without context.</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/284524-h1.jpg" alt="Wolfenstein's Deathshead looks like a creepy uncle in this Christmas card screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=284173Brett Makedonskihttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Brett+MakedonskiAmazon's gearing up for Black Friday with some cheap games and sexy TVs2014-11-22T16:00:00Z2014-11-22T16:00:00Z<p>Black Friday seems to get here earlier and earlier every year. Recently, retailers pushed the annual shopping extravaganza to Thanksgiving evening. This year, Amazon's prepping the masses for massive savings with a week of rotating deals before turkey day even hits. Pretty soon Black Friday will be an entire designated quarter of the year.</p>
<p>But, the consumerism-minded among us will openly welcome the opportunity to pick up some games and electronics for cheap. Some of these deals from Amazon are a nice start, especially that 4K 50" TV (and <em>Wolfenstein</em>&nbsp;for those who can't swing $800 right now).</p>
<p>We're going to make a sincere effort to keep you in the loop this holiday season about all the fine deals at both online retailers and traditional brick-and-mortar stores. After all, what good is all this videogame news if you can't play any of them? Ideally, you'll do that as cheap as humanly possible.</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/284173-AmazonHeader.jpg" alt="Amazon's gearing up for Black Friday with some cheap games and sexy TVs screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/amazon-s-gearing-up-for-black-friday-with-some-cheap-games-and-sexy-tvs-284173.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=280379Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthNintendo announces five new Fall hardware bundles2014-08-29T10:32:00Z2014-08-29T10:32:00Z<p>Nintendo announced five new hardware bundles for this Fall season this morning.</p>
<p>The Super Mario 3D World Deluxe Set launches in mid-September. For $299 you'll get the Wii U Deluxe Set,<em> Super Mario 3D World</em>, and <em>Nintendo Land</em>. Walmart has an exclusive Mario Kart 8 Deluxe set that swaps out <em>Super Mario 3D World</em> for Nintendo's newest racer, and it's also priced at $299, set to release in the middle of next month..</p>
<p>New 2DS bundles hit in early October. There are three:&nbsp;Electric Blue, Crimson Red or Sea Green. Each come with a digital version of&nbsp;<em>Mario Kart 7,</em> priced at $129.99.</p>
<p>But all you're thinking about is that <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/the-new-nintendo-3ds-is-a-new-3ds-iteration-from-nintendo-280363.phtml">New 3DS</a>, right? Me too.</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/280379-s.jpg" alt="Nintendo announces five new Fall hardware bundles screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/nintendo-announces-five-new-fall-hardware-bundles-280379.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=275395Jordan Devorehttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Jordan+DevoreAre you playing anything special for Memorial Day?2014-05-26T13:00:00Z2014-05-26T13:00:00Z<p>Long weekends are the best weekends. Are you playing anything of particular importance today? Even if you're not, that's fine too! We've all got backlogs. Even the mighty Chris Carter.</p>
<p>For me, it'll be more <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/advance-wars-is-better-than-cod-advanced-warfare-274216.phtml"><em>Advance Wars</em></a> -- gotta unlock those last couple COs, and then rank up, and then oh god I'm going to be playing this utter gem for a lot longer. As a new Wii U owner, it's been that and <em>Super Mario 3D World </em>and not much else. That'll change come <em>Mario Kart 8</em> on Friday.</p>
<p>And for those of you not in the United States, I want to hear your responses anyway -- what are you playing right now? Between <em>Transistor</em>, <em>Super Time Force</em>, <em>Wolfenstein: The New Order</em>, <em>Bound by Flame</em>, and <em>Drakengard 3</em>, we've got some good variety as far as recent releases go.</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/275395-h1.jpg" alt="Are you playing anything special for Memorial Day? screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=270529Jonathan Holmeshttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Jonathan+HolmesGet your exclusive Valentine's card gaming gifs here2014-02-14T11:15:00Z2014-02-14T11:15:00Z<p>It's Valentine's Day, which means there may be someone in your life that you feel excited (or obligated) to show how much you love them, most likely with candy, cards, or some other physical things. It's a holiday designed to make us feel like we have to spend money, which is great for the larger economy, but potentially bad for your wallet.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Destructoid is not immune to these pressures. We want to show you, the Destructoid reader, that we love you. So please, take these Valentine's Day-themed romance .gifs (transformed into .gif form by the lovely&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/ronin_usagi" target="_blank">Ronin Usagi</a>&nbsp;and <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/unverifiedBacon">Kevin Bacon</a>) and spread them to all you hold dear.&nbsp;</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/270529-h1.jpg" alt="Get your exclusive Valentine's card gaming gifs here screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/get-your-exclusive-valentine-s-card-gaming-gifs-here-270529.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=267961Jordan Devorehttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Jordan+DevorePlants vs. Zombies 2 celebrates Feastivus this week2013-12-23T13:30:00Z2013-12-23T13:30:00Z<p><iframe width="620" height="349" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/AR2JtglV_RA?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p>Ever since getting partway through its final world, I've been ignoring <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/review-plants-vs-zombies-2-it-s-about-time-259948.phtml"><em>Plants vs. Zombies 2</em></a> -- but <em>Plants vs. Zombies 2 </em>has not been ignoring me. Those push notifications haven't compelled me to return yet, though PopCap's plans for the game during Christmas week might.</p>
<p>The five days of Feastivus lasts from December 24 - 28. Each day, there will be a special holiday level in <em>PvZ 2</em> with unspecified prizes. The super cute promotional video above has me curious enough to at least check in on the first day. I hope the levels are as well put together.</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/267961-h1.jpg" alt="Plants vs. Zombies 2 celebrates Feastivus this week screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=267758Joshua Derocherhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Joshua+DerocherOwners of Mojang's Scrolls can gift a copy to a friend2013-12-19T21:00:00Z2013-12-19T21:00:00Z<p>If you own Mojang's <em><a href="http://www.destructoid.com/mojang-s-open-beta-for-scrolls-kicks-off-next-week-254634.phtml">Scrolls</a></em>, you will be able to give a copy to a friend as a gift this holiday season. All you need to do is log into your <a href="https://account.mojang.com/login" target="_blank">Mojang account</a>, and click on the "Send to a friend" button. A code will be sent to the email that you wish to gift the game to, and the receiver will have until January 31, 2014 to redeem the code.</p>
<p>I think it's awesome that Mojang is doing this, because it could basically double the number of people who own the game. That's if everyone sends out a key to a friend, and if you don't have someone to send it to I'm sure you can find someone on reddit or our forums. Don't let that free game go to waste!</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="https://scrolls.com/2013/12/own-scrolls-give-it-to-a-friend-for-free">Own Scrolls? Give it to a friend for free!</a> [Scrolls Blog]</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/267758-scrollschristmas.jpg" alt="Owners of Mojang's Scrolls can gift a copy to a friend screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=267753Joshua Derocherhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Joshua+DerocherEVE devs dress up as Yule Lads to hand out presents2013-12-19T08:30:00Z2013-12-19T08:30:00Z<p><iframe width="620" height="349" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/hXXb6p8e6ik" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p>I love CCP. They are a bunch of crazy guys, and every time they come out with a video it's always bizarre and amazing. To celebrate the holiday's in <em>EVE Online</em>, the guys at CCP are giving out in-game gifts on an advent calander. Of course, they had to create a video of the tale of the Yule Lads, dirty hobos with names like "Pot Licker" and "Door Slammer". They confront Santa Clause while flying around in space ships, which makes perfect sense I'm sure.</p>
<p><em>EVE </em>players can visit the <a target="_blank" href="https://secure.eveonline.com/adventcalendar/?utm_source=ccp&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=&amp;utm_content=secure_eveonline_com_adventcal">redemption page</a>&nbsp;to grab a new gift every day until Christmas. Nothing says "Happy Holidays" like some missiles or a 150mm Light Carbine Repeating Cannon. There are also snowballs you can fire at other pilots, which is a fun way to celebrate before you pod kill someone.</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/267753-yuleladseveccp.jpg" alt="EVE devs dress up as Yule Lads to hand out presents screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=267570Conrad Zimmermanhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Conrad+ZimmermanHow the Viscera Cleanup Detail saved Christmas2013-12-16T21:00:00Z2013-12-16T21:00:00Z<p><iframe width="620" height="349" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/tpWXZVXCkY4" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p>Certainly one of the strangest releases of 2013, <em>Viscera Cleanup Detail</em>&nbsp;now has a holiday-themed version available for purchase on Steam, <em><a target="_blank" href="http://store.steampowered.com/app/265210/?snr=1_4_4__tab-NewReleasesFilteredDLC">Santa's Rampage</a></em>. Set in the workshop at the North Pole, players must clean the carnage from a Kris Kringle killing spree. It's on sale now for $1.99 (regularly $2.49)</p>
<p>I think I've commented before on what a clever game <em>Viscera Cleanup Detail</em>&nbsp;is. It's more clever than it is fun, frankly, but how much fun can you really expect to have in picking up bits of unidentifiable corpses and disposing of them? But if you like the idea of a game in which you're the guy who shows up after the action is all over (as I do), you should probably try it.</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/267570-0hd.jpg" alt="How the Viscera Cleanup Detail saved Christmas screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=266723Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthDeal North: Cyber Monday gaming deals2013-12-02T02:45:00Z2013-12-02T02:45:00Z<p>You know what Cyber Monday is, right? It's the same crap from <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/deal-north-black-friday-software-deals-galore--266595.phtml">Black Friday</a>, just a few days later. It's a second chance for many that missed the good stuff last week. It's the better of the two, as you won't get trampled.</p>
<p>You won't find anything mindblowingly different in our Cyber Monday deals, but there are some good finds if you missed last weekend's action. Have a look and see if there's something you'd like.</p>
<p>If nothing else, be sure to get the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GJ2HZ7E/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;creativeASIN=B00GJ2HZ7E&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;tag=destructoid0f-20" target="_blank">Sonic Everywhere Pack</a>&nbsp;at Amazon, which contains a bunch of different Sonic games in one package. Even <em>Dr Robotnik's Mean Bean Machine</em> is included! And if you need a 3DS XL, get the new Mario and Luigi: Dream Team bundle at Walmart and Best Buy now.</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/266723-header.jpg" alt="Deal North: Cyber Monday gaming deals screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/deal-north-cyber-monday-gaming-deals-266723.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=266595Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthDeal North: Black Friday software deals galore!2013-11-28T20:30:00Z2013-11-28T20:30:00Z<p>Bananas! We've hit you with a ton of deals already, and many of them are still valid, so if you haven't checked our listings yet, check out:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.destructoid.com/deal-north-pre-black-friday-downloadable-games-deals-266518.phtml" target="_blank">Pre-Black Friday software download deals</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.destructoid.com/deal-north-thanksgiving-day-game-deals-266555.phtml" target="_blank">Thanksgiving day deals</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.destructoid.com/deal-north-black-friday-hardware-buyer-s-guide-266573.phtml" target="_blank">Black Friday hardware guide</a></li>
</ul>
<p>And now, here are the Black Friday software deals. Amazon leads the pack with tons of downloadable titles for PC at killer prices. Don't miss those.</p>
<p>As always, if we've missed anything good, let us know.&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>Note that prices may not drop until Friday morning for some of these links. Check in at 2 a.m. ET if the prices aren't live already.</em></p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/266595-dookie.jpg" alt="Deal North: Black Friday software deals galore! screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/deal-north-black-friday-software-deals-galore--266595.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=266573Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthDeal North: Black Friday hardware buyer's guide2013-11-28T15:45:00Z2013-11-28T15:45:00Z<p>Even with the early store openings they're calling Gray Thursday, Black Friday is really only one shopping day, so it's understandable that you'd want to maximize your time. We've done the footwork for you so you can go straight to the cheapest place for whatever you might be looking for. We've sorted the list by the top gaming items for Black Friday 2013 so you can see who has what for the best price, with the main link taking you to the lowest price we've found.</p>
<p><em>Please note that these items will switch over to their lowest price on Black Friday, so you may have to revisit some of these links on Friday morning. As for the unlinked products, you'll have to wait in line at the store for those.</em></p>
<p>As always, if you find something we've missed, or you've found a better deal than we have, let us know.</p>
<p>Happy shopping!</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/266573-headerdssss.jpg" alt="Deal North: Black Friday hardware buyer's guide screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/deal-north-black-friday-hardware-buyer-s-guide-266573.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=266555Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthDeal North: Thanksgiving day game deals2013-11-28T10:15:00Z2013-11-28T10:15:00Z<p><em>[<strong>Update</strong>: We've added a few more items to our shopping list this morning. Our deals corgi thanks you for your tips! Now go get Ni no Kuni for $15!]</em></p>
<p>Happy Thanksgiving!</p>
<p>Aside from what we have today and <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/deal-north-pre-black-friday-downloadable-games-deals-266518.phtml">what you've seen already</a>, they're saving the good stuff for tomorrow, Black Friday. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/deal-north-pre-black-friday-downloadable-games-deals-266518.phtml">There are still some pretty good deals to be found in our listings</a>&nbsp;with some new additions since yesterday afternoon, so don't miss these as they're all still running.</p>
<p>Below you'll find the deals that start on Turkey Day. Some of them only last through Friday, so get to buying if you see anything you like.</p>
<p>The best stuff comes tomorrow. Check back then for another deal round-up.</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/266555-thanksgivingpost.jpg" alt="Deal North: Thanksgiving day game deals screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/deal-north-thanksgiving-day-game-deals-266555.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=266518Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthDeal North: Pre-Black Friday downloadable games deals2013-11-27T17:45:00Z2013-11-27T17:45:00Z<p><em>[<strong>Update</strong>: Check our listings again for more additions! We've added some hot ones, like Atlus' deal on Persona 4 Golden for only $19.99. Jump on Steam flash deals like Gone Home for $4.99]</em></p>
<p>Deal North is back with a roundup of all the pre-Black Friday digital download deals we could find. Of course, many more deals will pop up over the course of the weekend. We'll update this list through Thanksgiving, and then launch with a brand new one starting Black Friday morning.&nbsp;</p>
<p>As always, if we've missed some good deals, let us know!</p>
<p>My recommendations?</p>
<p>If you don't have these yet, get<em> Persona 4 Golden</em> on Vita for $19.99, pick up <em>Grand Theft Auto V</em> for $33.99, and get <em>Rogue Legacy</em> for $5.09.</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/266518-head4.jpg" alt="Deal North: Pre-Black Friday downloadable games deals screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/deal-north-pre-black-friday-downloadable-games-deals-266518.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=266341Wesley Ruscherhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Wesley+RuscherAmazon's Black Friday videogame sales calendar revealed2013-11-24T13:32:00Z2013-11-24T13:32:00Z<p>For those giddy to get their holiday savings on, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/b/?_encoding=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;tag=571974-20&amp;linkCode=ur2&amp;node=8021566011" target="_blank">Amazon has released their upcoming Black Friday calendar</a> for crazy videogame sales.</p>
<p>Kicking it off tomorrow, November 25 at 5:10 am PST, is a <em><a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/review-skylanders-giants-236152.phtml">Skylanders Giants</a></em> portal owner pack for the Nintendo Wii U. The sale concludes on the 29 with both<em> Star Craft II</em> titles.</p>
<p>No prices are given, but at least you can schedule your days accordingly to catch the deals you want. I'm eyeing <em><a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/review-rayman-legends-260818.phtml">Rayman Legends</a></em>, <em><a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/review-grand-theft-auto-v-261879.phtml">GTA V</a></em>, <em><a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/review-batman-arkham-origins-264357.phtml">Arkham Origins</a></em>, and <em><a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/review-remember-me-254778.phtml">Remember Me</a></em>.&nbsp;</p>
<p>How about you?</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/266341-kdfkdfd.jpg" alt="Amazon's Black Friday videogame sales calendar revealed screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/amazon-s-black-friday-videogame-sales-calendar-revealed-266341.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=265920Brett Zeidlerhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Brett+Zeidler3DS holiday ad will make you wish you were a kid again2013-11-18T21:00:00Z2013-11-18T21:00:00Z<p><object width="620" height="375"><param name="movie" value="//www.youtube.com/v/nORgM4lpslk?version=3&amp;hl=en_US&amp;rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="//www.youtube.com/v/nORgM4lpslk?version=3&amp;hl=en_US&amp;rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="620" height="375" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></p>
<p>I've always been a fan of Nintendo's advertising, from <a target="_blank" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h3PpxuxRtSs">Pokemon's link trading commercials</a> to <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/wayne-brady-hams-it-up-in-wii-u-ads-264555.phtml">Wayne Brady rapping about Wii Party U</a> -- it's always been spot on. Don't question my unironic love for Wayne Brady. I suppose it comes as no surprise that this year's holiday TV commercial for the 3DS is extremely well done.</p>
<p>It captures that Christmas morning magic: snow piling up outside, awesome decorations, family, and spending all day playing that sweet new Nintendo handheld you just received as a gift. I don't think I'm alone in saying those are my favorite gaming memories I have.</p>
<p>I'm super jealous kids get to grow up with the 3DS (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/opinion-the-3ds-is-the-best-system-to-get-this-year-265668.phtml">arguably the most important system to own this year</a>). Although, I had the immense privilege of growing up with the Game Boy Pocket and Game Boy Advance. So that was pretty cool.</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/265920-3ds_holiday.jpg" alt="3DS holiday ad will make you wish you were a kid again screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=265916Conrad Zimmermanhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Conrad+ZimmermanLimited holiday edition Ouya comes in white2013-11-18T14:45:00Z2013-11-18T14:45:00Z<p>Ouya is trying its damnedest to appeal to those looking to put a little gaming under their tree this holiday. Today, a special, exclusive holiday edition of the console has been announced which comes in bright, white case and features 16GB of storage capacity, twice that of the standard version. The limited run is only available in North America and <a href="http://shop.ouya.tv/products/ouyalimitededition" target="_blank">can be ordered now direct from Ouya</a> for $129.99.</p>
<p>For a long time, I considered the possibility of picking up an Ouya because of the low price, but it simply doesn't excite me when effectively everything I'd want to play seems to be coming to PC eventually. This white version is even more of a dealbreaker, in part because it's more expensive but also due to the color itself. I would be so much more depressed by an unused Ouya if it were easier to tell at a glance how much dust it was collecting.</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/265916-hd ac4.jpg" alt="Limited holiday edition Ouya comes in white screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=265909Conrad Zimmermanhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Conrad+ZimmermanNintendo to show off games in nationwide mall tour2013-11-18T13:30:00Z2013-11-18T13:30:00Z<p>Nintendo's taking to the road this holiday shopping season, embarking on a 23-stop mall tour across the United States, to get families hooked on the idea of bringing gaming home for Christmas. They're bringing a whole lot of games with them too, with hands-on play expected to be available for more than a dozen Wii U titles (including <em><a href="http://www.destructoid.com/review-wii-party-u-264016.phtml">Wii Party U</a></em>, <i><a href="http://www.destructoid.com/review-the-legend-of-zelda-the-wind-waker-hd-261994.phtml">Windwaker HD</a></i>,&nbsp;and <em><a href="http://www.destructoid.com/review-rayman-legends-260818.phtml">Rayman Legends</a></em>) and an equally impressive number of 3DS games (such as <em>Legend of Zelda: Link Between Worlds</em>, <em>Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon</em>,&nbsp;and <em><a href="http://www.destructoid.com/review-pokemon-x-and-y-263390.phtml">Pok&eacute;mon X/Y</a></em>). They'll also have suffering people in costumes you can take pictures with in most locations.</p>
<p>The tour begins next week on November 25th and continues through December 22nd. A full schedule of mall appearances can be <a target="_blank" href="http://www.nintendo.com/events/holidaymallexperience">found on Nintendo's website</a>.</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/265909-hd ac4.jpg" alt="Nintendo to show off games in nationwide mall tour screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=265487Wesley Ruscherhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Wesley+RuscherWhere's your next-gen money going?2013-11-14T15:00:00Z2013-11-14T15:00:00Z<p>The holidays are quickly approaching and so are two brand spankin' new consoles. It's already one of the craziest times of the year to buy things, and both <a href="http://www.destructoid.com/destructoid-s-playstation-4-launch-title-guide-265555.phtml" target="_blank">Sony</a> and <a href="http://www.destructoid.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-xbox-one-264722.phtml" target="_blank">Microsoft</a> are only adding to the chaos. How does one even prepare for the madness of the next gen of gaming?</p>
<p>Well, while they may have the two hottest items to hit the stores this season, there are still a myriad other choices out there clamoring for some of ours, and your, hard-earned cash. Nintendo is coming full force with the Wii U and <em><a href="http://www.destructoid.com/super-mario-3d-world-is-an-absolute-blast-to-play-262899.phtml" target="_blank">Super Mario 3D World</a></em>, the 3DS has a new <em><a href="http://www.destructoid.com/a-link-between-worlds-custom-3ds-coming-november-22-265596.phtml" target="_blank">Zelda</a></em>, and Sony's Vita is finally finding its groove after a <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/sony-to-drop-playstation-vita-price-to-200-260402.phtml">price drop</a>. Let's not even forget that looming around the corner is the <a href="http://www.destructoid.com/valve-introduces-a-new-type-of-controller-for-steam-262578.phtml" target="_blank">Steam Box</a>, and some killer current-gen titles like <em><a href="http://www.destructoid.com/ultra-street-fighter-4-is-your-next-street-fighter-game-258096.phtml" target="_blank">Ultra Street Fighter IV</a></em> and <a href="http://www.destructoid.com/new-lords-of-shadow-2-gameplay-emphasizes-exploration-258489.phtml" target="_blank"><em>Castlevania: Lords of Shadows&nbsp;</em>2</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<p>So what will you be buying this holiday season? PlayStation 4, Xbox One, perhaps a shiny new Wii U?&nbsp;Not one of those you say? Wait, all of them...</p>
<p>Yeah, you sound like most of the Destructioid team below:</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/265487-h1.jpg" alt="Where's your next-gen money going? screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/where-s-your-next-gen-money-going--265487.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=265510Joshua Derocherhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Joshua+DerocherHere are a bunch of Black Friday ads with videogames2013-11-12T11:00:00Z2013-11-12T11:00:00Z<p>I abhor everything to do with Black Friday since I worked in retail for nine years, but if you are the type of person willing to stand in line at the mall at 6 PM on Thanksgiving, then you might be interested in these ads. GottaDeal.com have uploaded a bunch of &nbsp;Black Friday ads, including <a href="http://blackfriday.gottadeal.com/BlackFridayScans/WalMart/3" target="_blank">Walmart</a>, <a href="http://blackfriday.gottadeal.com/BlackFridayScans/Kmart/5" target="_blank">Kmart</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://blackfriday.gottadeal.com/BlackFridayScans/BestBuy/3" target="_blank">Best Buy</a>, <a target="_blank" href="http://blackfriday.gottadeal.com/BlackFridayScans/GameStop">GameStop</a>, <a target="_blank" href="http://blackfriday.gottadeal.com/BlackFridayScans/RadioShack/4">RadioShack</a>, <a target="_blank" href="http://blackfriday.gottadeal.com/BlackFridayScans/Target/7">Target</a>, and <a target="_blank" href="http://blackfriday.gottadeal.com/BlackFridayScans/ToysRUs/25">Toys R Us</a>.</p>
<p>All of those links will take you right to the video game section, so you won't have to dig around to find them. There are some good deals to be found in there on games and systems, so it's worth a few clicks to check them out.&nbsp;</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/265510-jinglealltheway.jpg" alt="Here are a bunch of Black Friday ads with videogames screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=265143Hamza CTZ Azizhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Hamza+CTZ+AzizHelp us shape our Holiday Gift Guide!2013-11-07T16:00:00Z2013-11-07T16:00:00Z<p>It's that time of the year again where we start finalizing all the hottest and coolest stuff we want to nab for the holidays. New consoles are upon us, there's a ton of great games to get, and there's plenty of other cool gadgets and tech we all hope will be waiting for us underneath the Christmas tree next month.</p>
<p>We're working on shaping our hardware and videogame guides right now, but we want your input too! What are the games and tech you're really hoping to get for yourself, or for your loved ones? Tell us in the comments and share with us what you'd want to see.</p>
<p>Here's what we did for <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/destructoid-s-2012-hardware-holiday-gift-guide-240107.phtml">hardware</a> and <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/destructoid-s-2012-games-holiday-gift-guide-239469.phtml">gaming</a> last year if you're curious, and possibly looking for something that would be dirt cheap right now probably.</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/265143-head.jpg" alt="Help us shape our Holiday Gift Guide! screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=265028Joshua Derocherhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Joshua+DerocherSteam sale dates might have leaked on Reddit2013-11-06T10:30:00Z2013-11-06T10:30:00Z<p>A screenshot of an email to a Steam developer has made its way way onto Reddit, and the email shows that the Steam Holiday Sale will start on December 19th and run until January 2nd. The email clearly says that the developer shouldn't make the dates of the sales public, but I guess they decided to ignore that and share it anyway.</p>
<p>One <a href="http://www.reddit.com/r/Games/comments/1ps7si/steam_holiday_sale_start_date_leaked/cd5j0cm" target="_blank">Reddit commenter</a>&nbsp;says that this email is real, but who knows if he actually knows anything. To me, this email seems like it's real, and some tiny developer got excited about knowing the sale dates and couldn't resist posting them on the internet.</p>
<p>We all knew that the sale would be coming up in December, but the exact dates being leaked could cause problems for Valve with other retailers being able to possibly start their sales sooner to beat Valve to the party.&nbsp;</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/265028-theshadow.jpg" alt="Steam sale dates might have leaked on Reddit screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/steam-sale-dates-might-have-leaked-on-reddit-265028.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=264257Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthWii U gets a Skylanders holiday bundle2013-10-25T10:30:00Z2013-10-25T10:30:00Z<p>A new Wii U bundle for this holiday season packs in a <em>Skylanders SWAP Force</em> starter pack for a nice all-in-one gift idea.</p>
<p>Set to launch on November 15 for $299.99, this bundle comes with a white Wii U, the S<em>kylanders SWAP Force</em> game, the <em>Nintendo Land</em> game disc, a Portal of Power, three Skylanders figures, a collector poster, trading cards, and sticker sheets.</p>
<p>The Wii U version of<em> SWAP Force</em> is notable for its touch-screen usage through the GamePad. The entire game can be played on the GamePad.</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/264257-z_NOA_WiiU_SKYLANDERS_bundle_Ft_RGB.jpg" alt="Wii U gets a Skylanders holiday bundle screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=263389Hamza CTZ Azizhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Hamza+CTZ+AzizWhat are you dressing up as for Halloween? 2013-10-11T06:00:00Z2013-10-11T06:00:00Z<p>Got your Halloween costumes yet? No? Well you still have some time to get something, and <a target="_blank" href="http://www.halloweencostumes.com/?CouponCode=hcdestructoid15">Halloween Costumes</a> has a ton of different outfits for sale. There's a ton of videogame related designs up, ranging from Master Chief,&nbsp;<em>Mortal Kombat,</em>&nbsp;<em>Street Fighter</em>, <em>Zelda</em>, <em>Mario</em>, and <em>Angry Birds</em> to name a few. There's even kids versions of some of the costumes.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The outfits all vary in prices, but you can save 15% on any of the costumes in the store by using <a target="_blank" href="http://www.halloweencostumes.com/?CouponCode=hcdestructoid15">this coupon code</a> given to share specifically with Destructoid readers. The code is good until November 1.</p>
<p>So, do you have a costume planned yet? What are you dressing up as for Halloween?&nbsp;</p> <p>
<img src="http://cdn.destructoid.com//ul/263389-mortal-kombat-kitana-costume.jpg" alt="What are you dressing up as for Halloween? screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=244870Jim Sterlinghttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Jim+SterlingAvP: Evolution is all about Valentine's lovin'2013-02-13T15:15:00Z2013-02-13T15:15:00Z<p>Okay, so <em>Aliens</em> fans were let down this week <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/review-aliens-colonial-marines-244276.phtml">by a certain game</a>, but interactive Xenomorph entertainment is always on the horizon, and iOS users have<em> <a href="http://www.destructoid.com/aliens-vs-predator-evolution-coming-to-mobile-whaaaaat--239010.phtml" target="_blank">AvP: Evolution</a></em> to look forward to. The only way is up from here!</p>
<p>But we've got Valentine's Day to get through first, and that means disturbing imagery of Preds and Xenos getting all sexy together. To that end, Evolution's developers have brought us these saucy wallpapers for your sensual enjoyment.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Fantastic. Check 'em out in our attached gallery.&nbsp;</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/244870-aaheader.jpg" alt="AvP: Evolution is all about Valentine's lovin' screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/avp-evolution-is-all-about-valentine-s-lovin--244870.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=244736Jordan Devorehttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Jordan+DevoreNaughty Dog melts hearts with Valentine's Day cards2013-02-12T16:45:00Z2013-02-12T16:45:00Z<p>Oh shoot! Valentine's Day is coming up soon! If you haven't been bombarded with advertisements already, <a target="_blank" href="http://www.naughtydog.com/site/post/naughty_dog_celebrates_valentines_day/">consider this batch of cards</a> from Naughty Dog your official reminder.</p>
<p>The studio has <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/review-uncharted-3-drake-s-deception-214385.phtml"><em>Uncharted</em></a>- and <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/hands-on-the-last-of-us-scared-me-sh-tless-243926.phtml"><em>The Last of Us</em></a>-themed cards available for sharing, which are somehow all pretty damn cute. Quite the feat, given the subject matter. Personally, that Brock the Brick card is the standout for being simultaneously adorable and kind of depressing.</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/244736-nd1.jpg" alt="Naughty Dog melts hearts with Valentine's Day cards screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/naughty-dog-melts-hearts-with-valentine-s-day-cards-244736.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=241639Tony Poncehttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Tony+PonceSpend Christmas with Sonic in this sweet short film2013-01-02T15:00:00Z2013-01-02T15:00:00Z<p><iframe width="620" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/mkWjun6IKRw?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p>It's a little late, but here's a sweet Christmas movie about Sonic and his <em>insufferable</em> friends.</p>
<p>Sonic visits home for the holidays, and everyone sits around swapping popular Yuletide tales with Sega characters inserted. Even if it's not laugh-out-loud funny, it's charming and adorable in the way <em>Brawl in the Family</em> always seems to be.</p>
<p>"Another Christmas with Sonic" was created by aspiring voice actor <a target="_blank" href="http://www.youtube.com/user/Balenaproductions">Steven Page</a> and artist <a target="_blank" href="http://rianald.deviantart.com/">RianaLD</a>. It's a follow-up to a short film they collaborated on last year, which I have embedded after the jump. Watch and be merry!</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mkWjun6IKRw">Another Christmas with Sonic</a> [YouTube]</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/241639-SonicChristmas-Header.jpg" alt="Spend Christmas with Sonic in this sweet short film screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/spend-christmas-with-sonic-in-this-sweet-short-film-241639.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=241585Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthHappy New Year 2013!2013-01-01T08:30:00Z2013-01-01T08:30:00Z<p>As we kick off this new year, I would like to personally thank everyone reading this for supporting Destructoid this past year. You readers are a constant source of inspiration for the staff here, and it means so much to us that you come back everyday. You are the best. We love you.</p>
<p>We hope you'll stick around for 2013, as we're sure it's going to be a huge year for us. As the industry grows, so do we. Expect great things in the coming months.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The videogame industry will also have a banner year with expected console and game announcements. I'm sure it'll be one for the record books, so stick with us this year as we attempt to tackle it all for you.</p>
<p>We would like to wish all of our readers, supporters, partners and colleagues a Happy New Year. Health, success, corgis.</p>
<p>[adorable image via <a target="_blank" href="http://thedailycorgi.blogspot.com/">The Daily Corgi</a>]</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/241585-jambrodhudsny.jpg" alt="Happy New Year 2013! screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=241422Chris Carterhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Chris+CarterRing in the New Year with Mega Man Christmas Carol Remix2012-12-28T19:00:00Z2012-12-28T19:00:00Z<p><iframe width="620" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/KjMmqGc37wc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p><em>Mega Man</em> fans are in for one last treat in 2012 -- another <em>Mega Man Christmas Carol</em> fangame! After the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/get-equipped-with-a-mega-man-christmas-carol--190323.phtml">first</a> and <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/mega-man-christmas-carol-ii-brings-back-holiday-vengeance-219012.phtml">second</a> iterations, Sprites Inc. is back with a third title, which is a remixed version of the first one with the new engine.</p>
<p><em>Christmas Carol Remix</em> features five difficulty levels, three characters, new content, and achievements, all on top of a remastered version of the first <em>Christmas Carol</em>. Of course, sick holiday chiptunes make a welcome return.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.sprites-inc.co.uk/files/forum/showthread.php?tid=458">You can download it for free here</a> -- just be aware that the creator is constantly tweaking the game with balance patches and bug fixes.</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/241422-CC1.jpg" alt="Ring in the New Year with Mega Man Christmas Carol Remix screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=241333Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthKid loses it after unwrapping Wii U Christmas morning2012-12-27T09:30:00Z2012-12-27T09:30:00Z<p><span><iframe width="620" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/UZatoTL9IMk" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></span></p>
<p>The kid in this above Christmas morning video from YouTuber&nbsp;<a dir="ltr" data-sessionlink="feature=watch&amp;ei=CLyB2OPqurQCFUZ4TAodCRQkYA%3D%3D" class="yt-uix-sessionlink yt-user-name " href="http://www.youtube.com/user/denhooks?feature=watch">Deongello Vanorsby</a>&nbsp;ramps up slowly, from delayed reaction to shock to... tears! Dad gets a flying bear hug that slowly&nbsp;devolves&nbsp;into grateful sobbing. And then, emotionally drained, he goes back to hold his new Wii U.</p>
<p>"But this thing was like $349!" he says.</p>
<p>What a good kid.</p>
<p>I got my niece and nephew a Wii U for Christmas. They were like, <em>oh cool.</em></p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/241333-ig.jpg" alt="Kid loses it after unwrapping Wii U Christmas morning screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=241267Tony Poncehttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Tony+PonceBrawl in the Family is home for the holidays2012-12-25T23:30:00Z2012-12-25T23:30:00Z<p><iframe width="620" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ehQlAlvncJw?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p>As Christmas wraps up and <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/five-reasons-you-need-to-go-to-magfest-11-240992.phtml">MAGFest</a> fast approaches, we celebrate the Yuletide season with the gift of song.</p>
<p>The previous four strips of Matthew Taranto's <em>Brawl in the Family</em> (<a target="_blank" href="http://brawlinthefamily.keenspot.com/2012/12/11/454-dededes-holiday-vacation-2/">454</a>, <a target="_blank" href="http://brawlinthefamily.keenspot.com/2012/12/14/455-bug-catchers-holiday-vacation/">455</a>, <a target="_blank" href="http://brawlinthefamily.keenspot.com/2012/12/18/456-ganondorfs-holiday-vacation/">456</a>, and <a target="_blank" href="http://brawlinthefamily.keenspot.com/2012/12/21/457-luigis-holiday-vacation/">457</a>) have seen Dedede, <em>Pok&eacute;mon</em>'s Bug Catcher, Ganondorf, and Luigi traveling to adjoining universes for their holiday vacations. My favorite was Luigi's trip to Hyrule, where he successfully supplanted Link as the Hero of Time, but they were all charming as <em>BitF</em> comics tend to be.</p>
<p>For episode 458 (mistakenly numbered 358), Matthew pulled another musical number out of his magic bag of tricks. He and his wife Sarah sang a lovely rendition of the holiday classic "Home for the Holidays" as all the Nintendo vacationers returned from their journeys abroad. Very touching!</p>
<p>I also suppose this is as good a time as any to remind you that Matt is one of the team members on the upcoming <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/nintendo-force-magazine-is-the-new-kid-on-the-block-241172.phtml"><em>Nintendo Force</em></a> magazine! Hurray for him! And hurray for all of us for being along for the ride! Merry Christmas, duders!</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://brawlinthefamily.keenspot.com/2012/12/25/358-home/">458 - Home</a> [Brawl in the Family]</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/241267-BitF-Home-Header.jpg" alt="Brawl in the Family is home for the holidays screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=241263Tony Poncehttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Tony+PonceCheck out several sites and companies' Christmas cards2012-12-25T19:00:00Z2012-12-25T19:00:00Z<p>Every year, game companies and other game sites like to send out holiday cards to their various contacts -- not that out of the ordinary. Sometimes these cards are your basic season's greetings, but other times they go above and beyond, with wonderful art and other clever flourishes.</p>
<p>I'd like to share a few such cards in the gallery below.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://level5ia.com/">LEVEL-5</a> contributes a photo of a <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/video-preview-the-impossibly-pretty-ni-no-kuni-240824.phtml"><em>Ni no Kuni</em></a>-themed cake and signatures from various staffers including CEO Akihiro Hino. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/review-awesomenauts-226947.phtml"><em>Awesomenauts</em></a>' Ronimo Games provides a twisted number by the game's artist, <a target="_blank" href="http://gijshermans.blogspot.com/">Gijs Hermans</a>. <em>Metroid</em> fan site and <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/psa-harmony-of-a-hunter-101-run-is-ready-fo-yo-ass-238865.phtml"><em>Harmony of a Hunter</em></a> album distributor <a target="_blank" href="http://www.shinesparkers.net/">Shinesparkers</a> offers not one, not two, but <em>three</em> different cards. And finally, <a target="_blank" href="http://www.i-mockery.com/">Roger Barr</a> and <a target="_blank" href="http://www.abobosbigadventure.com/">Team Bobo</a> prove once again that <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/review-abobo-s-big-adventure-222925.phtml">Abobo</a> is every holiday icon rolled into one.</p>
<p>This post was a fairly last-minute thing, so I regret that I wasn't able to gather a larger collection. Regardless, I hope you had a great Christmas!</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/241263-LEVEL-5XmasCard-Header.jpg" alt="Check out several sites and companies' Christmas cards screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/check-out-several-sites-and-companies-christmas-cards-241263.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=241256Jim Sterlinghttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Jim+SterlingMerry Christmas from Dtoid: now what'd you get?2012-12-25T12:00:00Z2012-12-25T12:00:00Z<p>Today is Christmas Day, the day we celebrate America's favorite lover, Cool Christmas, bedding beautiful women around the nation and refusing to pay child support. Cool Christmas says condoms are a scam. Just listen to him. He's cool. Cool Christmas.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Of course, the <em>main</em> reason for the season is getting scads of free loot, so tell us what the BLOODY HECK you got, why don't you? Also, check out below to find out what the Destructoid creative family received, in all their wonder and glory.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Merry Christmas, boys and girls!</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/241256-xnas.jpg" alt="Merry Christmas from Dtoid: now what'd you get? screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/merry-christmas-from-dtoid-now-what-d-you-get--241256.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=241068Tony Poncehttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Tony+PonceGanon Claus brings tidings of great immolation2012-12-21T19:30:00Z2012-12-21T19:30:00Z<p><iframe width="620" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/FCX8uqTghKw?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p>Oh, <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/art-juice-that-ganondorf-207756.phtml">that Ganondorf</a>!</p>
<p>Musical troupe Random Encounters has gifted the Internet a nice holiday-themed production starring that bottomless well of happiness and cheer, Ganondorf! Listen as he and Princess Peach regale us with a song about Ganon Claus, noble benefactor and malicious fiend alike.</p>
<p>Speaking of Christmas, only four days left. I'm ready to get fat.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FCX8uqTghKw">Ganon Claus</a> [YouTube]</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/241068-GanonClaus-Header.jpg" alt="Ganon Claus brings tidings of great immolation screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=240956Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthSega's holiday sale on now for XBLA, PSN, mobile 2012-12-20T12:30:00Z2012-12-20T12:30:00Z<p>If you would have told me 10 years ago that games would be sold as digital downloads, I would have sh*t my pants. And if you told me that every holiday these games would go on sale, I would have sh*t my sh*t. We take these holiday sales for granted sometimes. The us of the past would be upset at that, wouldn't they?</p>
<p>Just in time for the holidays, Sega has some discounts on digital downloads for a bunch of PSN, a few XBLA titles and several on both mobile platforms for you. &nbsp;</p>
<p>Notable bits include a Sega Holiday bundle that includes&nbsp;<em>Jet Set Radio, Nights, Sonic Adventure 2, Sonic Adventure 2 DLC</em> and a theme for only $14.99, only on PSN. <em>Virtua Fighter 5 Final Showdown</em> is only 600 MSP on XBLA. Many titles are priced at $0.99 on both iOS and Android, too.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Head to <a href="http://blogs.sega.com/2012/12/19/sega-holiday-sale/" target="_blank">Sega's Blog</a> for the full list of discounted games. Sale prices good through Jan. 8.</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/240956-image003.jpg" alt="Sega's holiday sale on now for XBLA, PSN, mobile screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=240889Brett Zeidlerhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Brett+ZeidlerSound Shapes is getting a free holiday sound pack today2012-12-19T12:15:00Z2012-12-19T12:15:00Z<p><span><!-- jEmbed JS API-->
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<p><em><a href="http://www.destructoid.com/sound-shapes-232933.phtml" target="_blank">Sound Shapes</a> </em>is a really special game. Even <em>more </em>special is the game's community, which supports it with absolutely amazing new levels/songs every single day. Queasy Games has realized this, and to show their undying love for the community they're releasing the free <em>Holiday Sound Pack </em>right now. Just start your game up (while connected to the internet), and that's it! It's like Christmas morning, except it's December 19th and you're probably still at work or school.</p>
<p>What exactly will you be getting in this pack? Well, you'll have five brand-new Christmas-themed instruments from classic carols that you and your peers of the <em><a href="http://www.destructoid.com/sound-shapes-three-new-sound-packs-new-terrain-pack-239948.phtml" target="_blank">Sound Shapes</a> </em>community get to play with. I can't wait for someone to recreate <em>Led Zeppelin II </em>or something with them. Actually, I think that'll now be my goal for the rest of the day.</p>
<p>Happy Holidays right back at all you guys over at Queasy Games. Oh, and quit being so freaking adorable.</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/240889-soundshapes_holiday.jpg" alt="Sound Shapes is getting a free holiday sound pack today screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=240903Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthMerry Christmas: Nintendo TVii Launches December 202012-12-19T08:52:00Z2012-12-19T08:52:00Z<p>Nintendo TVii launches on the Wii U on December 20 in US and Canada. That's tomorrow. The free television watching social service will be in place just before kids unwrap their Wii U on Christmas Day. Close one, Nintendo. You would have come out looking like scrooge if you missed this.</p>
<p>Nintendo plans to transform the TV viewing experience with TVii, letting each member of their home have their own customized, personalized viewing experience of TV, streaming video, and more.&nbsp;Social features let users share thoughts on what they're watching over Facebook, Twitter, and Miiverse straight from the GamePad. Get movie reviews, sports stats, cast details and more.</p>
<p>The December 20 launch will support cable and&nbsp;satellite&nbsp;providers in US and Canada. It will also support Hulu Plus and Amazon Instant Video in the United States. Netflix and Tivo support will come in 2013.&nbsp;</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/240903-aca.jpg" alt="Merry Christmas: Nintendo TVii Launches December 20 screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=240859Brett Zeidlerhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Brett+ZeidlerMassive Xbox Live Marketplace holiday deals start today2012-12-18T22:30:00Z2012-12-18T22:30:00Z<p>As tradition would have it, Microsoft is having its massive "Countdown to 2013" Xbox Live Marketplace sale starting today that will run right up until New Year's Day. There are <a target="_blank" href="http://majornelson.com/2012/12/18/countdown-to-2013-deals/">29 special offers</a> that will run the length of the sale, with <em><a target="_blank" href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/Product/Jet-Set-Radio/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d80258411247?cid=majornelson">Jet Set Radio</a> </em>reduced to 400 Microsoft Points, <em><a target="_blank" href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/Product/Plants-vs-Zombies/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d802584109ff?DownloadType=Game#LiveZone?cid=majornelson">Plants vs. Zombies</a> </em>at 600 MSP, and <em><a target="_blank" href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/Product/Super-Meat-Boy/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d80258410a5a?DownloadType=Game#LiveZone?cid=majornelson">Super Meat Boy</a> </em>at 600 MSP.</p>
<p>If you check back on <a target="_blank" href="http://www.xbox.com/en-US/community/promotions/countdown-2013">the promotion's page</a> every day for the next two weeks, you'll find brand-new daily deals to burn a hole through your wallet. Today, you can net&nbsp;<em><a target="_blank" href="http://marketplace.xbox.com/Product/Call-of-Duty-Modern-Warfare-3/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d802415608cb?nosplash=1&amp;DownloadType=Game#LiveZone?cid=majornelson">Modern Warfare 3</a> </em>and all of its DLC for half off. Not bad. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/showthread.php?t=334339">Cheap Ass Gamer</a> has the list of all the upcoming daily deals, which includes <em><a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/review-the-walking-dead-a-new-day-226554.phtml">The Walking Dead: Episode 1</a> </em>being free next week, among <em>so</em> much more.</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/240859-jetsetradio.jpg" alt="Massive Xbox Live Marketplace holiday deals start today screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=240548Jordan Devorehttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Jordan+DevoreGuild Wars 2 holiday event starts tomorrow2012-12-13T20:00:00Z2012-12-13T20:00:00Z<p>The third big event for <em>Guild Wars 2 </em>is Wintersday, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.guildwars2.com/en/the-game/releases/december-2012/">a holiday-themed excursion</a> which spans a few weeks and begins ... tomorrow! Toymaker Tixx will be making the rounds to Tyria's major cities on a giant, rather terrifying airship. There's going to be so many toys that ArenaNet is teasing a final event called the Toypocalypse.</p>
<p>Even if the sound of mini-games isn't the most appealing, there will be other events in addition to the Wintersday conclusion mentioned above and it'll surely be worth logging on to check out the decked-out holiday areas. Just don't hit me with a snowball.</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/240548-gw1.jpg" alt="Guild Wars 2 holiday event starts tomorrow screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=240296Tony Poncehttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Tony+PonceMerry chipWINter! Have 14 holiday-themed chiptunes!2012-12-10T19:30:00Z2012-12-10T19:30:00Z<p>[<strong>Update: </strong>The <a target="_blank" href="http://chiptuneswin.com/album/chipwinter"><em>chipWINter</em> Bandcamp page</a> is up! There was an opportunity to purchase a limited edition audio cassette of the album, but it sold out in five minutes. Damn!]</p>
<p>It's the holiday seasoooooooooon!</p>
<p>Brandon Hood of "<a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/ChiptunesWin">Chiptunes = WIN</a>" organized the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/chiptunes-win-is-three-hours-of-free-music-suckas--229684.phtml">original 51-track behemoth</a> for release back in June. In October, he followed up with an <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/the-tipping-point-chiptunes-win-gets-an-expansion-pack-235952.phtml">expansion</a> featuring a reduced count of 22 tracks. For the hat trick, there is a modest collection of 14 songs from 14 artists. A far cry from the disgusting excess of the first album, sure, but no less appreciated by the discerning chiptune lover.</p>
<p>As the name implies, <em>chipWINter</em> is holiday-themed delight with which to warm yourself on those cold December nights. I especially love that the lead track is a chip arrangement of Vince Guaraldi's famous "Linus an Lucy" off the <em>A Charlie Brown Christmas</em> soundtrack. Very classy!</p>
<p>At 9 PM EST, there was a <em>chipWINter</em> listening party on <a target="_blank" href="http://www.8bitx.com/">8bitX Radio</a>'s "8 Bit Power Hour," after which the album went live for free on <a target="_blank" href="http://chiptuneswin.com/album/chipwinter">Bandcamp</a>. Now go get it, boyo!</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://chiptuneswin.com/album/chipwinter">chipWINter</a> [Bandcamp]</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/240296-chipWINter-Header.jpg" alt="Merry chipWINter! Have 14 holiday-themed chiptunes! screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/merry-chipwinter-have-14-holiday-themed-chiptunes--240296.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=240107Jordan Devorehttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Jordan+DevoreDestructoid's 2012 Hardware Holiday Gift Guide2012-12-07T16:30:00Z2012-12-07T16:30:00Z<p><sub>[</sub><sub>Special thanks to Jonathan Ross, Brett, and Dale for helping me put this all together. The list would have been much more dull without their creative suggestions.</sub><sub>]</sub></p>
<p>For me, gift guides have always been more about the fun of imagining yourself possessing things you don't particularly need and likely can't afford rather than using them to actually figure out what you want to buy for your loved ones. Isn't that what Amazon wishlists are for?</p>
<p>As we saw in our <a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/destructoid-s-2012-games-holiday-gift-guide-239469.phtml">holiday gift guide for software</a>, games are one thing -- especially given the high quality of digital-only titles and frequency of heavy discounts on the more expensive releases. But hardware? That's where I start to delve into daydreaming territory.</p>
<p>More than anything else, this gift guide is focused on suggesting "cool stuff" that you wouldn't mind receiving as a gift or treating yourself to. It really is the thought that counts, and since we don't personally know your friends and family (<em>that</em> well), the truly thoughtful, tearjerker gifts are solely on you. With all that said, let's dive right in.</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/240107-testt1.jpg" alt="Destructoid's 2012 Hardware Holiday Gift Guide screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/destructoid-s-2012-hardware-holiday-gift-guide-240107.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=240097Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthNintendo sells 1.75 million hardware units in November2012-12-07T14:45:00Z2012-12-07T14:45:00Z<p>The NPD group says that Nintendo moved more than 1.75 million hardware units in November. The power of Black Friday pushed 910,000 portable systems and 845,000 home consoles into shopping bags last month.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The breakdown shows that the Wii U moved 425,000 units in 7 days. <em>New Super Mario Bros. U</em> sold 243,000 copies, making for an attach rate of about 60 percent. The Wii did almost as well, moving 420,000 systems. The 3DS is rounding the 6.5 million units mark, too.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Nintendo says that last month was the 36th time they've sold more than one million hardware units in one month since 2004.&nbsp;</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/240097-35.jpg" alt="Nintendo sells 1.75 million hardware units in November screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/nintendo-sells-1-75-million-hardware-units-in-november-240097.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=238989Jayson Napolitanohttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Jayson+NapolitanoSound Card 010: Top ten game music tracks for Christmas2012-11-26T16:00:00Z2012-11-26T16:00:00Z<p>It's the most wonderful time of the year! And I truly believe that. While Thanksgiving is easily my favorite holiday, Christmas is a close second, and I've always made an iPod playlist with tons of holiday music that I roll out the day after Thanksgiving.</p>
<p>Recently, I had people ask me what kind of music I put on my Christmas playlist, and I realized I had a lot of game tracks! So what better way to kick off the Christmas season than with ten of my favorite holiday themes from videogames!</p>
<p>As usual, we can't include everything in a short top ten list, so feel free to chime in with some of your favorites as well, and together we'll hopefully have a pretty sizable list of music to enjoy this Christmas season!</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/238989-christmas_banner.jpg" alt="Sound Card 010: Top ten game music tracks for Christmas screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/sound-card-010-top-ten-game-music-tracks-for-christmas-238989.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=239201Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthSquare Enix Black Friday & Cyber Monday sale open2012-11-23T08:49:00Z2012-11-23T08:49:00Z<p>While I'll always roll my eyes at people that say things like 'I won't get out in that mess' on Black Friday (I'm going shopping later today), there's nothing wrong with a bit of holiday shopping for digital downloads. Square Enix has several of their newer titles on sale for 50 percent off in their Black Friday / Cyber Monday sale.</p>
<p>Running from now through November 26, jump on games like<em> Theatrhythm Final Fantasy, Kindgom Hearts 3D [Dream Drop Distance]</em> and <em>Sleeping Dogs</em> for half off. Hit up the <a href="http://store.na.square-enix.com/store/sqenixus/DisplayHomePage" target="_blank">Square Enix web store</a> if you're&nbsp;interested. &nbsp;</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/239201-Theatrythm-Final-Fantasy-featured-image.jpg" alt="Square Enix Black Friday & Cyber Monday sale open screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=239152Jim Sterlinghttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Jim+SterlingLet us give thanks to the Nintendo Parakeet2012-11-22T12:15:00Z2012-11-22T12:15:00Z<p>It is Thanksgiving Day, that day we celebrate Christopher Columbus sailing to Nazareth in a gigantic turkey, and we are to be grateful for all the wonderful things that have happened at us over the course of our short, and ultimately pathetic, lives.&nbsp;</p>
<p>As a gamer, I am particularly thankful for the Nintendo Parakeet, the oft-overlooked mascot of the Nintendo DS' voice recording features. Appearing in DSi Sound, and joined by two of his friends in 3DS Sound, the Nintendo Parakeet has acted as a faithful guardian of children the world over, watching with stoic patience as 8-year-olds make "hilarious" noises into their portable consoles and play with the settings to make the voice go deep. Or, more importantly, keeping its beak shut as they say "fuck" or "fuckhouse" in their bedrooms where the parents can't hear them.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The Parakeet has heard your son or daughter say "fuckhouse," but he'll never tell. He'll never tell.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Be thankful for the Parakeet's silent vigil.&nbsp;</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/239152-aheader.jpg" alt="Let us give thanks to the Nintendo Parakeet screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.destructoid.com/let-us-give-thanks-to-the-nintendo-parakeet-239152.phtml">Read more...</a>tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=239007Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthNielsen: Kids want iOS products and Wii U this Holiday2012-11-20T16:30:00Z2012-11-20T16:30:00Z<p>So you think you've picked out something original for the children in your life for this holiday season? Put it back. They don't want that crap. Nielsen's data shows that they want Apple products or a Wii U.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Tablets are hot with kids, and while they wouldn't hate an Android one, what they really want is an iPad. <a target="_blank" href="http://blog.nielsen.com/nielsenwire/consumer/u-s-kids-continue-to-look-forward-to-iholiday/">Nielsen's data</a> shows that Apple's tablet is the #1 device kids age 6-12 want, with 48 percent of those polled asking for it. For ages 13 and up, the iPad is also #1. You could get them the iPad mini, but that's farther down on the list. They'd rather have an iPod Touch.&nbsp;</p>
<p>#2 on the list, ranking above Xbox 360, PS3, other tablets, the 3DS, Vita or anything else is Nintendo's Wii U, with 39 percent of&nbsp;respondents&nbsp;hoping for the hot new console.</p>
<p>You want to look like a superstar this Christmas? Get a Wii U. That's my plan.&nbsp;</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/239007-a.jpg" alt="Nielsen: Kids want iOS products and Wii U this Holiday screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
</p>
tag:http://www.destructoid.com/,2015:/post.phtml?pk=238933Dale Northhttp://www.destructoid.com/blogs/Dale+NorthFlame Red 3DS bundle available on Black Friday2012-11-19T09:00:00Z2012-11-19T09:00:00Z<p>Starting this Black Friday shopping season, on November 23, Nintendo will offer a Flame Red Nintendo 3DS bundle,&nbsp;packaged&nbsp;with one of the best games for the system,<em>&nbsp;Super Mario 3D Land</em>, priced at only $169.99. That's like getting the game for free. Not a bad deal!</p>
<p>Get in line at your least crazy big box retailer this weekend to nab the bundle.</p> <p>
<img src="http://www.destructoid.com//ul/238933-2323.jpg" alt="Flame Red 3DS bundle available on Black Friday screenshot" width="620" border="0" />
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